Masters in Mission Studies

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A study of the approaches used by indigenous missionaries in the evangelization of muslims in Monrovia, Liberia.
(2014-04-07) Gonkerwon, Matthew Pix
This study investigated to what extend the indigenous missionaries prepare for the approaches that they are using in evangelism as well as to understand their experiences resulting from the various approaches used in the field. Its purpose was to help indigenous missionaries working among Muslims in Monrovia to examine their approaches so that they may become increasingly effective gospel communicators among Muslims. A descriptive study was used to discover the situation as it is, and both qualitative and quantitative methods were used. Data was collect using questionnaires, (open ended and closed ended) along with follow up interview through the email and telephone. A total of seven indigenous missionaries with the minimum of one year experience working among Muslins were both served the questionnaire and interviewed for this study. The finding indicates that indigenous missionaries go through many forms of preparation before going on the evangelistic field. However, they lack some important areas of preparation which could have made them more effective in their effort to communicate the gospel to Muslims in Monrovia. Some of the areas which were placed less emphases in their preparation were Muslim worldview, fast and prayer, the Qur' an, and socio-cultural practices. It was clearly reviewed that indigenous missionaries used friendship evangelism, lifestyle, teaching and media approaches to communicate the gospel to Muslims in Monrovia. Friendship and lifestyle were the most common and most fruit approaches used. From these approaches, they experienced suspicion, discouragement, rejection, culture shock, hospitality, and confrontation. Based on the findings, indigenous missionaries need to first be motivated by passion for Muslims and need adequate preparation in the areas of Muslim religious beliefs and practices, worldview, Qur'an and socio-cultural practices. They should also spend time in fast and prayer so that they may be empowered by the Holy Spirit before going on the field. With all the above, they need to love and build a healthy relationship with Muslims. These will help them become increasingly effective gospel communicator among Muslims. Finally, indigenous missionaries should not give up or be discouraged but have hope and rely on the Holy Spirit as they work among Muslims in Monrovia.